Police in Cebu City have significantly increased their surveillance of fireworks sellers as the Christmas season draws near. Authorities issued a clear warning that only a limited number of retailers are legally permitted to operate within the city.
Strict Authorization and Designated Zone
According to Police Lt. Col. Jose Losbaños, the spokesperson for the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO), only 18 vendors have received official authorization to sell fireworks this holiday season. These approved sellers are those properly registered with the Regional Civil Security Unit (RCSU) 7. All legal sales are confined to one specific area: the designated zone at South Coastal Road.
Patrols and Confiscation Warnings
The police have made it clear that selling fireworks on sidewalks or anywhere outside the official zone is completely prohibited. CCPO personnel have already started conducting street patrols to identify and issue warnings to unauthorized vendors. Lt. Col. Losbaños, speaking in Cebuano, stated that merchandise will be seized from anyone selling without the necessary permits from both RCSU7 and the Cebu City government.
Officers have direct instructions to confiscate the products of any vendor who refuses to follow these rules. This crackdown is a key part of the city's broader safety campaign aimed at preventing fire-related incidents during the festive period.
Public Safety as the Top Priority
The heightened enforcement underscores the government's commitment to public safety. By restricting sales to a controlled area and a small group of vetted vendors, authorities aim to minimize risks and ensure a safer celebration for all residents. The public is urged to purchase fireworks only from the authorized sellers at the South Coastal Road location to avoid supporting illegal trade and potential hazards.
